โNo trust, no bond:โ Teachers union-backed poll claims voters do NOT support Houston ISD bond proposal
A research poll conducted on behalf of the Texas Federation of Teachers says less than half of voters support the bond proposal, and less than a quarter have confidence "or don't trust" Superintendent Mike Miles.
Property tax rates in Harris County may rise due to new law
Harris County commissioners are engaged in a heated discussion about a proposed increase in property tax rates. If approved, the rates could surge by 8%, a significant jump from the usual 3.5% cap.
โYeah, she told a big fat lieโ: FEMA relief not sufficient to cover roof, mold damage to New Caney home
A New Caney family thought that they were finally getting relief after their home was destroyed by Hurricane Beryl. Now, theyโre realizing that their relief might not be sufficient.
Houston family in need of FEMA assistance kicked out of hotel due to โcomputer errorโ
A family tells KPRC 2 they were forced out of their hotel room when they were told their FEMA checks bounced, despite being told they could stay until September 8.
No American dream? 1 in 4 retirees return to work due to financial struggles
According to a new report by BadCredit.org, a financial education platform, 59% of retirees lack sufficient funds for retirement, with more than half forced to change their lifestyle due to financial hardship.
Houston energy trader pleads guilty for role in paying $600K in international bribes
To hide the scheme, Javier Aguilar and his co-conspirators used alias email accounts to discuss the scheme with code words for the bribes like โshoes,โ โmedicine,โ โinvitations,โ and โcoffee.โ
Man shot to death over $20 at SW Houston food truck, gunman still at large
Houston police said three men asked another for $20 at a food truck. That man went to get the $20, but investigators say he returned with a pistol -- he didn't shoot it but pointed it at the three others, and they shot him.
With possible interest rate cuts ahead, hereโs how you can prepare
With potential interest rate cuts on the horizon, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hints at relief for consumers and small businesses. Lower interest rates could mean more affordable loans, mortgages, and refinancing opportunities.
How Houston residents can monitor electric usage in real time
Saving on electricity means turning off devices and lights and bumping up your thermostat to a temperature some of you may think is uncomfortable. Many of you donโt do it because you donโt know how much you can save. There is an easy way to track your usage and see how small changes to your routine can save you money on your electric bill.
Why CenterPoint Energy is accused of overcharging customers for years
A judge has denied CenterPoint Energyโs request to dismiss their rate review. The company must now return to the table with city leaders to negotiate new rates that we all pay on our electric bill. Investigative reporter Amy Davis explains why CenterPoint is accused of overcharging all of us for years.
Spring woman confesses to embezzling over $900,000 from her job at HVAC company
A woman from Spring has confessed to embezzling more than $900,000 from a local HVAC company, according to U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Houston-area school districts warn of continued severe cuts if voucher fight keeps funds tied up in state legislature
โItโs not mismanagement by schools,โ Alief ISD Deputy Superintendent Charles Woods explained. โWeโre all in the same boat that the general public is; weโve got high inflation, high costs, we have hurricanes coming through, we have all the things weโve always had, and then we have had six years, three legislative sessions without additional funding just for the basic costs of education.โ
La Porte PD needs help finding man caught on ATM camera withdrawing over $1,000 with stolen debit card
La Porte police say the man used the stolen debit card from โan elderly victimโ at two separate ATMs in the Houston area in March 2024.
Waiting for FEMA check? Hereโs how to get help
Weโve heard from many of you who are still waiting for your FEMA checks after Hurricane Beryl left behind damage in our area. FEMA first said it would take up to 10 days for someone to get their funds but many say they are still waiting.
โIโm screaming. Iโm yelling. Iโm upsetโ: Houston Cash App fraud victims lose thousands of dollars
Cash App customers may be able to claim $2,500 each as part of a $15 million settlement for data and security breaches.
Cash App ordered to pay $15M in fraud settlement. Hereโs how you can submit a claim
If youโve used Cash App and experienced unauthorized or fraudulent transactions since August 23, 2018, you might be eligible for a refund. To see if you qualify, submit your Claim Form by November 18.
Several cities, including Houston, team up demanding CenterPoint lower rates
Several cities, including Houston, are urging the Public Utility Commission to prevent CenterPoint from dropping its rate case, arguing the utility company is overcharging customers by up to $100 million annually. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share your comments below!
Houston family trades city life for home in French medieval village
What would it take to convince you to pack up your life in Houston and relocate to a medieval French village that even most people in France have never heard of? Thatโs exactly what the Willick family did when they left H-Town three years ago.
Affordable healthcare options for Houston children heading back to school
A big concern for many families in the Houston area is how to find affordable healthcare. Back-to-school time is often a busy time for parents looking for affordable care. KPRC 2โฒs Bill Spencer is looking for ways to help families save money on everything from dental visits to regular check-ups.
3 simple (new) ways Houston parents can save big on back-to-school shopping ๐๐
Experts say this year, just like everything else, itโs going to cost you more money to buy all that back-to-school gear. KPRC 2โฒs Bill Spencer is looking for brand new ways you can save money.
โIt has to get paidโ: UH Energy VP suggests CenterPoint customers will pay for Hurricane Beryl costs
University of Houston VP Ramana Krishnamoorti and CEO Jason Wells indicate that the costs incurred will eventually be passed to customers, either through a future rate increase or a state bailout.
Why some Houston-area residents received FEMAโs maximum grant and you did not after Hurricane Beryl
Did you find out that your neighbor received more money in FEMA reimbursements than you?
Tax-free weekend is approaching, just in time for the new school year. Whatโs on your list?
Parents, get ready to save! Texas' tax-free weekend is just around the corner, from Aug. 9 to Aug. 11. Whatโs on your back-to-school shopping list? Let us know in the comments!
How Houstonians can voice concerns to CenterPoint for โchaos and frustrationโ during Hurricane Beryl
On Monday, lawmakers in Austin are planning to question leaders for CenterPoint Energy on the companyโs performance in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.
Houston tax preparer admits to falsifying returns, resulting in over $100K in losses
Court records claim Guevara admitted to placing $26,857 in fake business losses that resulted in a tax loss to the U.S. of $13,390 on that return. He took responsibility for $123,458 in losses to the IRS and will be paying that back as restitution.
Texas named one of the least supportive states for impoverished people: report
Despite all the wonderful things Texas has to offer, a recent study is making some bold suggestions about how the Lone Star State looks after its residents living in poverty.
New rules about airline cancellation, baggage delays Houston residents should know about
No matter which airline you choose, unexpected fees seem to add up. This is the first summer travel season where new travel rules now in place. KPRC 2โฒs Bill Spencer looks into the things you need to know before taking your next trip.
Need to restock your fridge? Kroger, H-E-B offering discounts to Texans recovering from Beryl
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Kroger and H-E-B are stepping up to help Texans restock their fridges. Kroger is offering $10 off a $100 purchase through July 23 with their Kroger Plus Card. Meanwhile, H-E-B is providing a 10% discount on all frozen food items, including ice, until July 21 at select locations.
One phone call drains $17K from Pearland womanโs bank account
We've all (or know someone) who has been impacted by financial scams and Pearland Police say it's hard to catch these scammers and banks have just as difficult a time recovering the stolen money.
Girls denied scholarship money by Pasadena City Attorney receive thousands of dollars more from community
A positive update to a story we first broke last week involving college bound teenage girls being denied scholarship money by the Pasadena City Attorney, after a council member tried to use his own budget funds to make it possible.
Over $5,000 raised for college-bound Pasadena students after scholarships canceled without explanation
After KPRC 2 reporter Deven Clarkeโs story about $500 scholarships being revoked at the last minute (and without explanation) community members stepped in and raised more than $5,000 for the college-bound students.
Houston dental clinic operator who orchestrated $6 million fraud scheme given prison sentence
Prosecutors say Rene Gaviola, 68, employed his son at Floss Family Dental Care, even though he isn't a licensed dentist, submitted several fake claims and pocketed the money.
Houston area business owner teaching young adults how to build a career in commercial real estate
As living costs rise, young adults are seeking lucrative career paths. Ed Ryland, CEO of ARVO Realty Advisors, is mentoring the next generation in commercial real estateโa challenging yet rewarding field. Learn how his program offers internships, jobs, and mentorship to help you succeed.
Ask Amy: How long will Texas electric rates be this high?
Why are electricity rates so high? When will they go down? Whatโs the best way to save money on electricity rates? Electric broker Mike Harrington with American Enerpower joins Amy to discuss electricity rates and your power bill.
Houston man sent to prison for depositing another personโs COVID-19 stimulus check in his account
Prosecutors say Ndem Oduu, admitted to depositing another personโs stimulus check in his own account, defrauding them of $1,200 that was meant to help the victim weather economic difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Houston public official accused of misusing millions in public funds
Todd Edwards, a former Real Estate Manager with the Midtown Redevelopment Authority, has been indicted for "Abuse of Official Capacity." An investigation revealed Edwards allegedly used his position to benefit companies he had interests in, diverting $8 to $10 million in public funds. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg will address the arrest on Friday afternoon. Stay tuned for more updates.
Signing up for new electricity plan? What Houston customers should know beforehand
Choosing a new electric plan, comparing rates and fees can be complicated. Itโs why some customers pay an electric broker or a third party to find the lowest rates. But some customers say their energy company is threatening to cancel their contracts because they signed up with the help of a broker. KPRC 2 Investigative reporter Amy Davis is asking - can they do that?
Houston pools unable to open amid nationwide lifeguard shortage, hereโs how you can help ๐๐
Options for where to swim in Houston are limited, due to a nationwide shortage of lifeguards.
Houston woman admits filing over $500K in fake applications for disaster relief funds, used Instagram to promote it
Prosecutors say Khalia Douglas posted stories on her Instagram with captions flat out incriminating her saying: โSBA is back open. $350 for method. Yes, Iโm doing applications $100 upfront & $2k when your money hits. Youโll need a real bank account.โ
Tracking Houston ISDโs bond spending: Where did the money go?
๐ Did you know that HISD is requesting a $4.5 billion bond proposal? This could be the largest in Texas history! The bond aims to address overdue facility upgrades and meet the district's $10 billion needs. #HISD #bondproposal #educationupdates #communitynews
Lifeguards needed in Houston, $500 incentive offered; hereโs how to apply ๐
Do you know anyone looking for a summer job? How about being a lifeguard? The City of Houston is offering $500 incentives for those who work throughout the summer.
Money-saving resources Houstonians should take advantage of when planning Memorial Day or Summer adventure
Summer is just around the corner and if youโre trying to get away from the intense Texas heat, we wonโt blame you. But we will if you donโt take advantage of some money-saving resources by United Airlines!
Experiencing rideshare surge pricing? Hereโs some alternatives for those who want to save
Ridesharing has become a monetary convenience and major part for travelers since the launch of Uber and Lyft.
Study says Houston has one of the lowest inflation problems, but do our pockets beg to differ?
Inflation continues to impact the U.S., and a recent study suggests Houston is not experiencing much of the brunt of high prices, compared to other cities, but if that's the case, how come I'm broke all the time?
Hereโs how much money you need to make in Houston to โlive comfortablyโ
We all have dreams of grandeur and success, but how much do you really need to make in Houston to "live comfortably"? A recent study says it's quite different compared to the median income.
Vehicle caught in the flood? Donโt pay too much for towing, storage fees
If your car was (or happens to get) caught in the flood waters and later find it to be towed, here's what you'll have to pay to get it back.
โItโs absolutely outrageousโ: Houston resident charged surprise $400 โfacility feeโ after doctor visit
Unexpected, unexplained fees are driving up the cost of doctor visits for families across Houston. We are talking hundreds of dollars in charges above your co-pay. Theyโre called โfacility fees,โ and patients are told days or weeks after their appointments they have to pay up. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis is looking into these facility fees and getting answers for people who are worried about their own bills.
Harris County man loses $800K in romance crypto scam as area sees โexponentialโ growth in crime
Itโs a new twist on a classic scam thatโs affecting people of all ages, according to FBI Houston, whether youโre looking for love or not.
New charge filed against Houston contractor accused of gambling away client money, blaming job delays on motherโs death
Aleck Miller, who owns AM2 Construction, has been hit with another felony theft charge after a new alleged victim reported him to Harris County law enforcement following KPRC 2โฒs story last week.
TX Supreme Court blocks $500 monthly payments after Ken Paxton files appeal against Uplift Harris
โHarris County officials cannot continue to abuse their power and the peopleโs money to score political points, and we will fight every step of the way to hold them accountable," Paxton said in a press statement.
Clinic owner at center of multi-million dollar fraud scheme in Houston area sent to prison
Prosecutors say Gwendolyn Gibbs, 72, the owner of Daybreak Rehabilitation Center, submitted fake claims to Medicare from 2007 until 2016 by pretending her patients were sicker than they really were.
$500 monthly payments scheduled for Wednesday through Uplift Harris remain in limbo despite judge siding with county
The first of 18 monthly payments are supposed to go out this Wednesday. And despite a judge siding with Harris County, Paxton has filed an appeal. Leading County Judge Lina Hidalgo to wonder when and if they can even give recipients the money.
โHe deserve everything he getsโ: Wanted man accused of stealing at least $35K from 71-year-old Houston widow
A 71-year-old woman has lost nearly $100,000 after a stranger got access to her checking account and Houston Police have tied at least $35,000 of the stolen money to a man who is now wanted.
โTake off your political glassesโ: NAACP Houston, partners push for full support of Uplift Harris program
The NAACP Houston Branch and partners held a news conference Wednesday to announce their support for Uplift Harris, a pilot program to help low-income households in Harris County.
YMCA of Houston takes action to combat childcare deserts
Struggling to find affordable childcare in Houston? The YMCA is here to help! They're taking action to combat childcare deserts in the area, offering programs for kids of all ages. From early childcare centers to summer camps, they've got you covered. Learn more and get involved: #ChildcareDeserts #CommunitySupport #YMCAHouston
Womenโs pay is up for debate AGAIN following the 2024 WNBA Draft, release of playerโs salaries๐๐ธ Letโs talk about it
Thereโs a recurring theme when it comes to women in the workplace. And that is... the lack of proper payments.
What is causing the childcare desert crisis in Houston? Hereโs what we know
๐ข Check out this eye-opening article on the childcare desert crisis in Houston. ๐ข๐ถ It sheds light on the limited availability of quality childcare services in many areas, leaving parents with few options. ๐ข Let's work together to address this pressing issue and ensure every child gets the care they deserve! ๐ช๐ [link] #ChildcareDeserts #Houston #Parenting #CommunityAction
Wanted couple gambled away over $1M including client money intended for Houston-area home renovations, records show
Houston-area home renovation clients claim they were left high and dry after paying tens of thousands of dollars to local company AM2 Construction. The work never got completed and some of the money got gambled away, charging documents reveal.
How to wipe out huge credit card debt simple and fast
Ted Rossman, a credit expert with bankrate.com, says credit card debt now stands at a staggering $1.18 trillion in this country, with 49% of all credit card users carrying that debt month after month.
These Houstonians made it to Forbesโ 2024 โRichest people in the worldโ list
These Houstonians have secured a coveted spot on Forbes' prestigious 'Richest People in the World' list for 2024, despite the challenges faced in 2020.
โI learned my lessonโ: Colorado man loses $2K by same ghost tax preparer that also left Houston residents empty-handed
A man from Denver, Colorado reached out to KPRC 2 after his friend shared one of our reports on two Houston-area women out thousands of dollars after trying to complete their taxes.
Help for Houston homeowners left with damage after utility crews dig
Discover what to do when a utility company leaves damage behind on your property. Investigative reporter Amy Davis shares insights on how to get information and seek compensation for property damage caused by utility crews.
Ask Amy: How to cut funeral costs with the help of a funeral negotiator
Itโs something every person will probably have to deal with at some point. We are talking about paying funeral costs for your loved one or planning ahead for yourself. Amy Davis talks with the โFuneral Negotiatorโ about how to keep funeral costs down.
Pilot program โUplift Harrisโ notifying recipients of $500 monthly grant
Applicants for the pilot program to help low-income residents living below the poverty line in Harris County will be notified on their status by March 22, 2024
Have financial stress due to eating out too much? Here are 5 tips to help
Itโs mentally healthy to treat yourself and eat out every so often, but what are ways you can do so without crossing that line to financial troubles?
Houston reaches historic settlement with firefighters ending pay dispute
Historic Agreement Reached for Houston Firefighters! Mayor John Whitmire and the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association have announced a groundbreaking deal, putting an end to the longstanding pay issue. #HoustonFirefighters #HistoricAgreement
These sobering St. Patrickโs Day facts give reason to be cautious during weekend celebrations
A tradition of consuming food and alcohol was born as a way to pay tribute to St. Patrickโs life and take a day break from abstaining from certain foods and alcohol during Lent.
โIt makes me angry and scared for other peopleโ: Warning from woman scammed while getting taxes done
Two Houston-area families are out thousands of dollars after hiring someone to complete their taxes. As tax day approaches KPRC 2โฒs Rilwan Balogun has a warning for everyone to double-check whoโs preparing their taxes even if they advertise as being local.
5 ways to save money on your trip to Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Dust off your boots and get ready for the rides and food the countdown is on for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. We are working on ways to help you and your family save money. Brittany Jeffers looks into ways to save you money this year. Her tips include buying a coupon pack ahead of time and that deadline is fast approaching!
KPRC 2 Investigates: 3 simple ways to save money on your health care needs
Healthcare for your family is something you may be able to save big on. KPRC2 Investigates looks into three ways to smash traditional healthcare models to offer all of us, even those without insurance, affordable care.
โIt took Channel 2 to bring this to lightโ: Walmart investigating third-party vendor after customers complain of scam
Days after KPRC 2 Reporter Rilwan Balogun story aired about a Sugar Land man being out of $350 after buying a Nintendo Switch he never received on Walmartโs website through a third party -- Walmart has since resolved this issue by refunding the customerโs money.
Water device featured in KPRC 2โฒs โDRAINEDโ investigation among top gadgets at CES 2024
Itโs always interesting to see the new types of gadgets and technology that people are working on. A product featured during this yearโs Consumer Technology Associationโs annual trade show (or CES) is something we featured in our โDRAINEDโ Investigation! KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis tested a water monitoring device that could help frustrated water bill customers.
Sugar Land man out of $300 after ordering Nintendo Switch on Walmartโs website through third-party vendor
A Sugar Land man says he is out of hundreds of dollars after ordering a gaming system on Walmartโs website through a third party.
Several lottery winners announced in the Houston area: Hereโs where they purchased their lucky tickets๐ค
Is it us, or are you noticing a lot of lottery winners in the Houston area?
Unclaimed $1 million Powerball ticket bought in Houston will expire soon
A lucky Powerball winner who bought a ticket from a store on Houstonโs southwest side wonโt be so lucky if they donโt hurry up and claim their ticket!
KPRC 2โฒs gift wrapping battle: Are we dropping bars or bows? ๐๏ธ๐
Wrapping gifts... you either absolutely love it or you absolutely hate it. Some people go all out, buying a plethora of ribbons and bows personalized to the one receiving the gift. Others prefer to just put the gift underneath the tree in its original box.
These simple steps will have you wrapping gifts like a pro this holiday season
To help you upgrade your gift-wrapping game this holiday season, Mary Burnett from Beringโs, shared her quick step-by-step instructions in 2021 that will have you wrapping presents like the best of Santaโs helper.